1st Samuel 23
(v.2) David does a wise thing...he asks the Lord to give him direction before acting. This is a good thing to remember in our own lives. Often, we seek other people's counsel (Prov 11:14), and that is ok only if those people have been praying and seeking God's direction as well. God sometimes speaks to us through other believers.
(v.6) An ephod is the vest worn by the high priest. It has twelve gems on the breastplate which represents the twelve tribes of Israel.
The rest of this chapter reveals Saul's obsession with killing David. Not only is Saul fighting David, but he's fighting God as well...and we all know what happens to those who try to fight God! Another thing to keep in mind, is when we are so focused and even obsessed with one thing, our main responsibilities can be neglected. While Saul was pursuing David, the Philistines attacked Israel.
I teach my kids that if they have all their duties and responsibilities done, THEN they can do a hobby or play. If they obsess with their hobby, then their responsibilities suffer.
Psalm 63
David wrote this psalm while hiding in the wilderness of Judah. He was greatly troubled, and frantic from being on the run constantly, but David made time to worship God and be grateful for His guidance. This is so hard to do, but essential. It's at times like these, that we should lay aside all the unimportant things, and focus on God. He is the only one to save us and guide us.
Another thing I stress with my kids, is that David often speaks of declaring God's love and glory to all in public. So many people believe that being a Christian is a personal thing...it is, but it's not private. If we have Christ in our lives, then we should want to share that with others...not keep it to ourselves.
1st Samuel 24
(v.3) Saul goes into a cave to "attend to his needs"...he had to go the bathroom! David is already in the cave, and could have killed Saul and ended the whole cat and mouse game. David could have seen this as a sign from God that He was giving Saul to him, but David didn't kill Saul. David allowed God to deal with Saul in His own way, and on His own timing. This is key for us to remember...God's timing is perfect, and most often, not our timing. We need to practice patience and faith, and He will see us through at just the right time, and in just the right situation.
(v.4) In my version of the Bible (NKJV), it says that David cut off a portion of Saul's robe. What he actually did was cut the hem of the robe. In those times, a leader would have his insignia and wording on the hem to show all that he had authority. Picture it like the stripes on the sleeve for a sergeant, or the stars on the collar for a general. David shows kindness while reminding Saul of who put Saul in his place of authority in the first place...God!
(v.14) David shows Saul that he was merciful and respectful to Saul. David kills Saul with kindness, and lets the LORD decide the outcome.
(v.17) Saul shows humility and gratitude for David's obedience and kindness. This doesn't last long, but it does make Saul give up his pursuit of David for the time being.
(v.21) Saul acknowledges that David will be king, and he asks the same thing Jonathan did...that David would not harm their descendants when David is king.
No comments:
Post a Comment